Strategies for Building Your Network in Serbia

Published on October 23, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Relocating to Serbia presents a tremendous opportunity for personal and professional growth. However, to fully succeed in integrating and advancing your career in this Balkan country, it’s essential to know how to build and maintain a strong professional network. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you effectively develop your contacts and influence as an expatriate in Serbia.

Understanding the Serbian Professional Context

Before diving into networking, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of the Serbian professional world:

A business culture still influenced by Yugoslav heritage

Although Serbia has undergone significant economic changes since the 2000s, certain aspects of professional culture remain influenced by the country’s socialist past. Hierarchical relationships remain quite pronounced, and decision-making processes can sometimes appear opaque to Westerners.

The importance of personal relationships

In Serbia, business relationships are often built on strong personal connections. Taking the time to create genuine connections with your counterparts is essential for establishing lasting partnerships.

Direct yet warm communication

Serbians generally appreciate frank and direct communication while placing great importance on friendliness in professional exchanges. Don’t hesitate to express your ideas clearly while remaining open and warm.

Identifying Networking Opportunities

To effectively develop your network in Serbia, it’s important to multiply opportunities for professional encounters:

Expatriate Associations

Joining expatriate associations is an excellent way to meet other international professionals and familiarize yourself with the local context. Here are some organizations to consider:

• Belgrade Accueil: This French-speaking association regularly organizes events and activities for expatriates in Belgrade.
• InterNations Serbia: A very active international community that offers monthly meetings and various interest groups.
• Belgrade Foreign Visitors Club: A club that brings together expatriates and locals around cultural and professional activities.

Chambers of Commerce

Bilateral chambers of commerce are privileged places to develop quality business contacts:

• French-Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry: It regularly organizes events and can connect you with French companies established in Serbia.
• American Chamber of Commerce in Serbia: Very active, it offers numerous networking opportunities for English-speaking professionals.

Local Professional Events

Participate in trade shows, conferences, and seminars organized in your industry. These events are excellent opportunities to meet key players in your industry in Serbia.

Mastering the Art of Intercultural Networking

To succeed in your professional interactions in Serbia, it’s important to respect certain cultural codes:

Prioritize in-person meetings

Serbians place great importance on interpersonal relationships. Whenever possible, prioritize face-to-face meetings over virtual exchanges to build strong connections.

Be patient and flexible

The pace of business can sometimes seem slower than in the West. Accept that some decisions take time and remain flexible in your expectations.

Show interest in Serbian culture

Serbians appreciate when foreigners show genuine interest in their country and culture. Don’t hesitate to share your discoveries and ask questions about local traditions.

Master the art of informal conversation

Professional discussions are often preceded by lighter conversations. Be prepared to talk about various topics like sports, culture, or current events before addressing business matters.

Leveraging Digital Tools

Although in-person meetings are preferred, digital tools can effectively complement your networking strategy:

LinkedIn

This professional platform is increasingly used in Serbia. Optimize your profile and join relevant groups for your industry.

Facebook

Many expatriate and professional groups are active on Facebook. Join them to stay informed about networking opportunities.

Local networking applications

Some applications like Meetup or Eventbrite are used to organize professional events in Serbia. Monitor them regularly to identify new meeting opportunities.

Maintaining and Developing Your Network Long-Term

Once initial contacts are established, it’s crucial to maintain and deepen them:

Stay in regular contact

Don’t wait until you need something to reconnect with your contacts. Regularly check in with your connections, share relevant information, or offer your help when possible.

Be a resource for your network

Position yourself as a resource person for your Serbian contacts by sharing your expertise or connecting them with other relevant professionals.

Actively participate in your professional community

Get involved in professional associations, volunteer as a speaker at events, or write articles about your area of expertise to gain visibility.

Cultivate reciprocity

Networking is a mutual exchange. Always be ready to do favors or share your knowledge with your Serbian contacts.

Conclusion

Developing a strong professional network in Serbia requires time, patience, and a good understanding of local cultural codes. By combining a personal and warm approach with strategic use of digital tools, you can create lasting and enriching connections that will support your professional success in this fascinating country.

Remember that every interaction is an opportunity for mutual learning and enrichment. Approach your networking experience in Serbia with openness and curiosity, and you’ll quickly see your network flourish.